In their first debate ahead of the November election, a raspy and sometimes halting President Joe Biden repeatedly attempted to confront Donald Trump, while his Republican rival countered Biden’s criticism with falsehoods about the economy, illegal immigration, and his role in the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection.

Biden’s uneven performance highlighted concerns among many Americans that, at age 81, he may be too old to serve as president, prompting renewed calls for the Democrat to step aside.

Meanwhile, the 78-year-old Trump’s rhetoric reminded Americans of the bombastic style he maintained during his four tumultuous years in office, as he struggles to win over skeptical voters. He also refused to clearly state that he would accept the results of the November election, four years after promoting conspiracy theories about his loss that culminated in the January 6 insurrection.

During the debate, Biden launched personal attacks on Trump, referencing everything from Trump’s recent felony conviction to his alleged insults of World War I veterans, as well as his weight and golf game. However, it was Biden’s faltering delivery that drew the most immediate attention. Trump’s allies quickly claimed victory, while prominent Democrats openly questioned Biden’s ability to continue in the race.